O'Neill's side made the perfect start, with James McClean scoring after just three minutes.

Steven Fletcher, who returned to the side following an ankle injury that forced him to miss the Chelsea game, scored his seventh of the season to make it 2-0, with Stephane Sessegnon adding a late third.

"It was essential we scored early so we were not chasing the game as we have been doing," O'Neill said. "It settles us down and gets the crowd with us.

"We had to do something to raise spirits and that goal was important. The second goal gives us that extra boost.

"Considering he [Fletcher] has not done any training since coming off against Norwich, we are delighted with his contribution and his goal. He has done exceptionally well. It was great he made himself available as he is very important for us."

Sunderland lost defenders Danny Rose and Phil Bardsley to injury and O'Neill said: "Danny [Rose] has been excellent and he is continuing to improve. The crowd have taken to him and that is pleasing.

"He hurt himself during the game and struggled to half-time but he has a bit of a problem. Unfortunately, Phil Bardsley's injury looks a more serious one."

Reading have now lost five successive league games and are six points from safety.

Royals manager Brian McDermott said: "It was a tough night for us. The lads have given us everything. But we have to move on from that and scrap. We have to keep working and stick together as a group.

"This time last year we were 20 points off the leaders in the Championship, so we have that belief that we can come good in the second half of a season and we feel we can do that again."

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